The Fillmore Lions Club has announced their 2024-25 Peace Poster Contest winners. Pictured above (l-r) for Year 2024-25 are First Place: Gabriella Lopez, Second Place: Victoria Topete (Mom shown in picture), and Third Place: Camilla Herrera. All winners are in the 8th grade. Photo credit Fillmore Lions Club.
The Fillmore Lions Club has announced their 2024-25 Peace Poster Contest winners. Pictured above (l-r) for Year 2024-25 are First Place: Gabriella Lopez, Second Place: Victoria Topete (Mom shown in picture), and Third Place: Camilla Herrera. All winners are in the 8th grade. Photo credit Fillmore Lions Club.
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The Fillmore Lions Club would like to announce the winners of the 2024-25 Peace Poster Contest. This contest involved the art class students from Fillmore Middle School.

Lions Club International stated: “This contest has been conducted for over three decades, Lions clubs around the globe have been sponsoring a very special art contest in schools and youth groups. Creating peace posters gives children everywhere the chance to express their visions of peace and inspire the world through art and creativity. The 2024-2025 contest was titled “PEACE WITHOUT LIMITS”. For peace to be anything more than a possibility, we need to make it a priority. This year, we asked our young students to create a poster that speaks to our world’s infinite potential for kindness once we commit to pursuing the idea of peace without limits.”

 

Vincent Parrish Vargas was arrested for firing multiple gunshots at the victim during a road rage incident. On January 12, 2025, at about 0701 hours, two vehicles were driving southbound on Grimes Canyon Road when a “road rage” incident occurred. Vargas followed the victim vehicle and fired several gunshots at the victim. Vargas continued to follow the victim vehicle and fired additional gunshots, striking the driver’s side of the victim’s vehicle. The victim was uninjured and was able to obtain the license plate of Vargas’ vehicle. The victim then relayed that information to Sheriff’s Dispatch as Vargas fled the scene. Officers from the Simi Valley Police Department located Vargas and his vehicle in the 2900 block of Tapo Canyon Road in Simi Valley. Deputies arrived a short time later and took custody of Vargas.

Deputies located a handgun in Vargas’ vehicle and seized it as evidence. Vargas was arrested for one count of Attempted Murder (PC 664/187) and booked into the Pre-Trial Detention Facility in Ventura. Vargas was also served with a Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO) and detectives from the Moorpark Police Department and East County Major Crimes Unit recovered an additional firearm from his residence.

The Moorpark Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed this incident to please contact Detective Kevin Walters at (805)494-8232. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Prepared by: Detective Jon Nungester

News Release Date: 01/14/2025

Approved by: Captain Darin Hendren

Booking Photo Release: NO

***

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

 
On Monday, January 13th, 2025, at 10:37 a.m., the Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, Fillmore Police, and AMR Paramedics were dispatched to a fire on a property in the 700 block of Fourth Street fully engulfed in flames, said Fillmore Fire Chief Keith Gurrola. The fire started in what he described as an accessory dwelling unit or back house. Crews set up a perimeter around the property and tried to keep the flames from reaching neighboring homes. In the end, the back house was reported as being about 70% destroyed, Gurrola said. Two other adjacent homes were also damaged but the extent was unclear. Residents of the three structures were not allowed to return to the buildings until further inspection, the chief said. It is not clear how many people were displaced as a result of the fire. No injuries were reported, and no one was inside the homes when firefighters arrived. Ventura County Fire is investigating the fire. The fire comes amid continued red flag warnings for the area due to strong Santa Ana winds that were expected to continue through Wednesday, January 15th. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Monday, January 13th, 2025, at 10:37 a.m., the Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, Fillmore Police, and AMR Paramedics were dispatched to a fire on a property in the 700 block of Fourth Street fully engulfed in flames, said Fillmore Fire Chief Keith Gurrola. The fire started in what he described as an accessory dwelling unit or back house. Crews set up a perimeter around the property and tried to keep the flames from reaching neighboring homes. In the end, the back house was reported as being about 70% destroyed, Gurrola said. Two other adjacent homes were also damaged but the extent was unclear. Residents of the three structures were not allowed to return to the buildings until further inspection, the chief said. It is not clear how many people were displaced as a result of the fire. No injuries were reported, and no one was inside the homes when firefighters arrived. Ventura County Fire is investigating the fire. The fire comes amid continued red flag warnings for the area due to strong Santa Ana winds that were expected to continue through Wednesday, January 15th. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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On Thursday, January 9, 2025, Fillmore Deputies and Narcotics Detectives detained Pop’s Auto Shop owner Manuel Arana, 54, of Santa Paula, in Fillmore pursuant to a search warrant as he was on his way to work. Later police executed a search warrant for Pop’s Auto Shop in Fillmore located at the corner of A Street and Ventura Street. Photo credit Gazette staff.
On Thursday, January 9, 2025, Fillmore Deputies and Narcotics Detectives detained Pop’s Auto Shop owner Manuel Arana, 54, of Santa Paula, in Fillmore pursuant to a search warrant as he was on his way to work. Later police executed a search warrant for Pop’s Auto Shop in Fillmore located at the corner of A Street and Ventura Street. Photo credit Gazette staff.
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Photo credit Ventura County Sheriffs Office
Photo credit Ventura County Sheriffs Office
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During the month of October 2024, Detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Street Team began an investigation into Manuel Arana and his business, Pop’s Auto Shop. Fillmore patrol deputies had conducted numerous enforcement stops related to the auto shop and developed information regarding the criminal activity occurring at the auto shop.

Detectives were granted a search warrant for Arana, his business and his residence by the Ventura County Superior Court. On January 9, 2025, Fillmore patrol deputies and Narcotics Detectives detained Arana in Fillmore pursuant to the search warrant as he was going to work. A short time later, Detectives executed the search warrant at Arana’s residence in Santa Paula and Pop’s Auto Shop in Fillmore.

As a result of the investigation, an un-serialized semi-automatic handgun was located in Arana’s residence and an unregistered handgun was located in the office of Pop’s Auto Shop. Arana was arrested and booked for firearms related offenses including being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and unlawful transfer of a firearm. Arana posted $50,000 bail and has a scheduled court date of January 23, 2025.

Prepared by: Sergeant Dan Ashmore

News Release Date: 1/10/25

Approved by: Captain Ron Chips

Booking Photo Release: NO

***
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

 
On Thursday, January 9th, at 2:11 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics responded to a reported vehicle versus motorcycle collision on Ventura Street in front of Super A Foods. Arriving deputies found the rider on the ground. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with deputies. AMR paramedics treated the rider, who was transported to a local hospital, condition unknown. An additional ambulance was also requested for the driver of the vehicle, who eventually refused medical treatment. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Thursday, January 9th, at 2:11 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics responded to a reported vehicle versus motorcycle collision on Ventura Street in front of Super A Foods. Arriving deputies found the rider on the ground. The driver of the vehicle remained on scene and cooperated with deputies. AMR paramedics treated the rider, who was transported to a local hospital, condition unknown. An additional ambulance was also requested for the driver of the vehicle, who eventually refused medical treatment. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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Please exercise extreme caution during the upcoming high wind events. A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for Ventura County, effective from Saturday, January 11th through Wednesday, January 15th. The combination of dry weather, dry grass, brush, and strong winds creates conditions where a wildfire could become extremely difficult to contain.

To help prevent the outbreak of wildfires, please follow these safety guidelines:

- No Outdoor Wood-Burning Fires: Refrain from lighting any wood-burning fires outdoors as they can easily spread in windy conditions.

- Smoldering Coals: After you finish cooking, make certain that all coals are completely extinguished and are cold to the touch.

- Avoid Mowing or Trimming Dry Grass When Windy: Operating machinery in these conditions can create sparks, potentially igniting a fire.

- Never Pull Your Vehicle Over in Dry Grass: Hot vehicle parts can ignite dry vegetation.

- Cigarettes: Dispose of cigarettes appropriately.

- Report Suspicious Activities: Be vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could lead to arson. Remember, if you see something, say something!

- Be Prepared for Evacuation: Ensure that you and your family are ready to evacuate if necessary.

- Keep Your Vehicle Ready: Maintain at least a half tank of gas in your car at all times.

- Prepare to Transport Pets: Ensure you have a plan and the necessary supplies to safely transport your pets.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire hazards during high wind conditions. Your safety and the well-being of our community depend on these simple yet effective actions.

Prepared by: Senerey De Los Santos

News Release Date: 01/13/25

 
The city of Fillmore lost power on Tuesday, January 7th, at 2:30 AM due to the Red Flag high fire/wind warning. Power was restored south of Highway 126 on Thursday, January 9th, at approximately 7 AM; and north of Ventura Street on Friday the 10th, around 9 AM. Above, VONS market lost power but continued to remain open, running on backup generators. Pictured, bakery goods and some refrigerated items were unavailable due to the power outage. Photo credit Gazette staff.
The city of Fillmore lost power on Tuesday, January 7th, at 2:30 AM due to the Red Flag high fire/wind warning. Power was restored south of Highway 126 on Thursday, January 9th, at approximately 7 AM; and north of Ventura Street on Friday the 10th, around 9 AM. Above, VONS market lost power but continued to remain open, running on backup generators. Pictured, bakery goods and some refrigerated items were unavailable due to the power outage. Photo credit Gazette staff.
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Above is the St. Francis Dam Tombstone. On Tuesday, January 21, Lost LA will feature an episode discussing the St. Francis Dam disaster. Photo credit Fillmore Historical Museum.
Above is the St. Francis Dam Tombstone. On Tuesday, January 21, Lost LA will feature an episode discussing the St. Francis Dam disaster. Photo credit Fillmore Historical Museum.
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On Tuesday, January 21, at 7:30pm, “Lost LA” will explore untold history behind Southern California with an episode featuring the St. Francis Dam disaster of 1928. Above is Fillmore Historical Museum Executive Director, Martha Gentry, with Geoff Manaugh and Nathan Masters being interviewed for the episode. Photo credit Fillmore Historical Museum.
On Tuesday, January 21, at 7:30pm, “Lost LA” will explore untold history behind Southern California with an episode featuring the St. Francis Dam disaster of 1928. Above is Fillmore Historical Museum Executive Director, Martha Gentry, with Geoff Manaugh and Nathan Masters being interviewed for the episode. Photo credit Fillmore Historical Museum.
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Courtesy Fillmore Historical Museum

“Lost LA” explores the past through the region’s archives, where photos, documents, and other rare artifacts unlock the untold history behind the fantasy of Southern California. The episode airing Tuesday, January 21, at 7:30 pm on KCET will focus on the St. Francis Dam disaster of 1928. Nathan Masters, a public historian of the USC Libraries, is the host of the 30-minute episode. He, accompanied by Geoff Manaugh, architecture and technology writer, begin by visiting the dam site with archaeologist, Ann Stansell, and seismologist, Lucy Jones. Here they discuss the various theories of why the dam failed as well as what evidence is still in the landscape.

Their second stop was here in Fillmore at the Fillmore Historical Museum. Executive Director, Marth Gentry, is interviewed about the impact on Fillmore and Bardsdale. She also shares many photographs as well as film made during the recovery efforts and a portion of an interview with Thelma Macauley Shaw, who as a 14-year-old girl was swept from Fillmore to Santa Paula, the only surviving member of her family.

Finally, Jose Alamillo, professor of Chicano Studies at CSUCI, talks about the impact on Santa Paula, especially the Hispanic community and how the effects of the trauma can still be felt.

You don’t need to be a dedicated “dammie” to enjoy this presentation and even the dedicated “dammie” will probably find something new about the St. Francis Dam disaster.

 
The new Poet Laureate of Ventura County, Mary Ann McFadden, was introduced to the Fillmore City Council at Tuesday’s regular meeting. Ms. McFadden read two of her poems to the council.
The new Poet Laureate of Ventura County, Mary Ann McFadden, was introduced to the Fillmore City Council at Tuesday’s regular meeting. Ms. McFadden read two of her poems to the council.
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ALL MOTIONS APPROVED 5-0

CITY OF FILLMORE

CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

6:30 PM CITY HALL AGENDA

1. CALL TO ORDER

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3. ROLL CALL

4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

5. PRESENTATIONS

5.A PROCLAMATION DEDICATIED TO BIG BROTHER BIG SISTERS OF FILLMORE FOR NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH (JANUARY)

5.B INTRODUCING THE NEW POET LAUREATE OF VENTURA COUNTY MARY ANN MCFADDEN

6. PUBLIC COMMENTS

7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDA-TIONS, AND COMMENTS

8. CONSENT CALENDAR

RECOMMENDATION FOR ITEM 8A. THROUGH 8B. IS TO APPROVE BY VOICE VOTE.

8.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JANUARY 14, 2025

CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JANUARY 14, 2025.PDF

8.B REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 22, 2024

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR OCTOBER 22, 2024.PDF

9. NEW BUSINESS

9.A CONSIDERATION OF INFOSEND, INC. SECOND CONTRACT AMENDMENT TO CONTINUE DATA PROCESSING, PRINTING, AND MAILING SERVICES
FOR THE CITY

SR - INFOSEND SECOND AMENDMENT.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Approve the Second Amendment to the Agreement with InfoSend, Inc. (InfoSend) to
extend the term and increase the Contract Sum by $152,000 (for a not to exceed total of $292,000) to continue receiving data
processing, printing, and mailing services; and 2. Authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the Second Amendment.

9.B APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL TO DESIGN REPAIRS TO THE SESPE CREEK BIKE PATH AND REQUEST TO APPROPRIATE FUNDING

SR-APPROVAL OF DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR REPAIRS TO SESPE CREEK BIKE PATH.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Approve Willdan Engineering’s proposal to design necessary repairs to the Sespe
Creek Bike Path; and 2. Authorize the appropriation of $40,495 from General Fund 101 to Fund 490.

9.C REALLOCATION OF FUNDS AND APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL TO DESIGN WELL NO. 10, PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 25-03, AND REQUEST FOR A
REALLOCATION OF FUNDS

SR- DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR WELL NO.10 DEVELOPMENT.PDF

9.C REALLOCATION OF FUNDS AND APPROVAL OF PROPOSAL TO DESIGN WELL NO. 10, PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 25-03, AND REQUEST FOR A

9.D FILING OF NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 23-

04, FILLMORE PARKS SHADE STRUCTURE PROJECT

SR - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR SHADE STRUCTURES.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Accept the services provided for Project Specification No. 23-04, Fillmore Parks
Shade Structure Project (“Project”), performed by SoCal Shade Sails (“Contractor”); 2. Authorize staff to file the attached
Notice of Completion; and 3. Authorize the final payment to the contractors of owed retention and Release on Contract
pending clearance of the 30-day lien period.

9.E FILING OF NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 22-04, CITY HALL ELEVATOR MODERNIZATION PROJECT

SR - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR CITY HALL ELEVATOR MODERNIZATION.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Accept the services provided for Project Specification No. 22-04, City Hall
Elevator Modernization Project (“Project”), performed by Specialized Elevator Services, LLC doing business as Next Level
Elevator (“Next Level Elevator”); 2. Authorize staff to file the attached Notice of Completion; and 3. Authorize the final
payment to the contractors of owed retention and Release on Contract pending clearance of the 30-day lien period.

9.F FILING OF NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE CONVERSION OF A TENNIS COURT TO A COMBINED TENNIS AND TWO PICKLEBALL COURTS AT
THE FILLMORE TENNIS AND SWIM CENTER, PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 24-04 SR - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR PICKLEBALL-TENNIS
COURTS.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Accept the services provided for Project Specification No. 24-04, Conversion of
Tennis Court to Combined Tennis and Pickleball Court Project (“Project”), at Fillmore Tennis and Swim Center performed by
Horizons Construction Company, Inc. (“Contractor”); 2. Authorize staff to file the attached Notice of Completion; and 3. Authorize the final payment to the contractors of owed retention and Release on Contract pending clearance of the 30-day lien period.

9.G AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 23-03, PAVEMENT PRESERVATION PROJECT

SR - AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PAVEMENT PRESERVATION PROJECT (SN23-03).PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1) 2) 3) Approve the award of contract to TORO ENTERPRISES, INC. for the construction
of Project Specification No. 23-03, Pavement Preservation Project FY23-24 for Bid Schedule A only in the amount of
$1,208,583.50 Authorize the City Manager to approve construction change orders up to the contingency amount of $96,686.68, as recommended and approved by the Construction Manager and City Engineer, and Allocate budget from RMRA (SB 1) funding by transfer of $400,000 from RMRA Tax Fund 205, to Street Improvements Fund 467.

9.H CONSIDERATION OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BOA ARCHITECTURE FOR THE SCHEMATIC DESIGN OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT
RESERVE STAFF DORM AND RESTROOMS, PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 25-05

SR-APPROVAL OF DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT DORMS AND RESTROOMS.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council approve a Professional Services Agreement with BOA Architecture for the schematic design of the Fire Department reserve staff dorm and restrooms.

9.I STAFF REPORT TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF THE 2024 SB 1205 FIRE INSPECTION REPORT
SR - SB1025 FIRE INSPECTION REPORT FOR 2024.PDF

10. COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS

RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adopting Resolution No. 25-4043 to acknowledge acceptance of a report on the Fire Department’s compliance with Senate Bill (“SB”) 1205.

11. CITY MANAGER

CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT

12. CLOSED SESSION

12.A JANUARY 14, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION JANUARY 14, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF

13. ADJOURNMENT
MAYOR CHRISTINA VILLASEÑOR ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2025, CITY HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

 
Current map of red flag warnings including Particularly Dangerous Situation locations. Photo credit and more information at https://www.weather.gov/lox/ or https://www.vcemergency.com/.
Current map of red flag warnings including Particularly Dangerous Situation locations. Photo credit and more information at https://www.weather.gov/lox/ or https://www.vcemergency.com/.
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On January 6, 2024, the Williams Homes released a notice to residence regarding dirt hauling /remedial grading at the Creekside residential development between Sespe Creek on the west boundary and Goodenough Road to the east. And will haul dirt through A Street, Third Street, and Old Telegraph Road to begin January 13, 2024. Read Article for more details.
On January 6, 2024, the Williams Homes released a notice to residence regarding dirt hauling /remedial grading at the Creekside residential development between Sespe Creek on the west boundary and Goodenough Road to the east. And will haul dirt through A Street, Third Street, and Old Telegraph Road to begin January 13, 2024. Read Article for more details.
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Notice of Dirt Hauling / Remedial Grading at the Creekside Residential Development Map of Dirt Hauling for TT Map 6053

Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=175
Posted on: January 6, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
City of Fillmore

Site Grading and Hauling of Export Rock and Dirt at the Creekside Residential Development Project is scheduled to commence

FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA –– Fillmore, CA – January 6, 2025 –

Please be advised that site grading and hauling of export rock and dirt at the Creekside residential development, Tentative Tract Map No. 6053, and Development Permit No. DP 20-04 for a land subdivision and development, is scheduled to commence.

Residents along the haul route and the adjacent to the development site should have received this notice in the mail. (https://www.fillmoreca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/926/T-6053-Haul-Route-Not...)

The Project location and haul route are provided in the notice. Below is the notice to residence

NOTICE OF DIRT HAULING / REMEDIAL GRADING

Tentative Tract Map No. 6053 and Development Permit No. DP 20-04

Dear Resident/Business Owner –

Please be advised that site grading and hauling of export rock and dirt at the Creekside residential
development, Tentative Tract Map No. 6053, and Development Permit No. DP 20-04 for a land
subdivision and development, is scheduled to commence.

Location: See Map on page 2. The development is generally located
near the north City limits, between the Sespe Creek on the
west boundary and Goodenough Road to the east, north of
B Street. The haul route is A Street, Third Street, and Old
Telegraph Road.

Approximate Dates of Hauling: January 13, 2025 to May 15, 2025
Hauling Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM Monday – Saturday.

Hauling Restrictions: To avoid Fillmore Middle School peak traffic hours for
drop-off and pick-up, no hauling is allowed between the

following timeframes:

7:30 AM – 8:15 AM or

2:30 PM and 3:15 PM

Contacts: Tony Vitale, Williams Homes

(805) 587-7062

Brian McCarthy, City of Fillmore

(805) 946-1846

We thank you in advance for your patience. We commit to working as diligently as possible to

monitor the hauling and have this operation completed as soon as possible.

 
On Monday, January 6th, 2025, 9:02 p.m., Fillmore Police Department responded to the station after a male subject arrived with stab wounds. Arriving deputies discovered a man with non-life-threatening injuries near the rear of the Fillmore Police Station. The victim made his way to the police station on his own. He was treated by AMR paramedics and taken to Ventura County Medical Center. The crime took place near the Fillmore Historical Museum, and deputies and investigators cordoned it off with crime scene tape. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Monday, January 6th, 2025, 9:02 p.m., Fillmore Police Department responded to the station after a male subject arrived with stab wounds. Arriving deputies discovered a man with non-life-threatening injuries near the rear of the Fillmore Police Station. The victim made his way to the police station on his own. He was treated by AMR paramedics and taken to Ventura County Medical Center. The crime took place near the Fillmore Historical Museum, and deputies and investigators cordoned it off with crime scene tape. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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On 01/06/2025, a stabbing occurred near the Fillmore Historical Museum located in the 300 block of Main Street in Fillmore. At about 9:00 PM, a Hispanic male with two other male subjects confronted an adult male victim on the sidewalk near the Fillmore Historical Museum. During the confrontation, one of the suspects stabbed the victim with a sharp metal object. The three suspects fled on foot while the victim was able to call the police.

Fillmore Patrol personnel contacted the victim and initiated an investigation which led to identifying (S) Ivan Hernandez as the stabber. Hernandez is a documented criminal street gang member who is currently on active parole.

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit and Fillmore Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene and located evidence consistent with a stabbing. Additional evidence linking Hernandez to the crime was also located at the scene.
While the crime scene was being processed by investigators with the Sheriff’s Bureau of Identification, a manhunt took place for Hernandez. A few hours into the manhunt, Hernandez was located by Fillmore patrol personnel at a nearby residence and taken into custody without incident for the stabbing. A parole hold was also placed on Hernandez.

Hernandez was booked for a felonious violation of Penal Code § 245(a)(1) – [Assault with a Deadly Weapon] and Penal Code § 3056 – [Parole Hold]. He is currently in custody at the Main Jail pending arraignment.

Nature of Incident: Stabbing Suspect Arrested
Report Number: 25-2294
Location: 300 Block of Main Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 01/06/2025, 8:58 PM

Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol, Fillmore Bureau of Investigation, Sheriff’s Major Crimes, Sheriff’s Bureau of Identification

(V) Adult Male Fillmore 47
(S) Ivan Hernandez Fillmore 33

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

 
The Fillmore Police Department would like to make residents aware of Assembly Bill 413, also known as the “California Daylighting Law.” This bill amends Section 22500 of the California Vehicle Code by adding a new section which prohibits stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, or within 15 feet of any crosswalk with a curb extension. For more details see press release on page 8 or you can visit the city website https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=174.
The Fillmore Police Department would like to make residents aware of Assembly Bill 413, also known as the “California Daylighting Law.” This bill amends Section 22500 of the California Vehicle Code by adding a new section which prohibits stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, or within 15 feet of any crosswalk with a curb extension. For more details see press release on page 8 or you can visit the city website https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=174.
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On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Fillmore woke up ghost town like with power outages throughout the town. Traffic lights on the 126 as well as in town were out all morning. Due to high winds forecasted for the area, the City of Fillmore has issued announcements of potential power shut offs for the area. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.
On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, Fillmore woke up ghost town like with power outages throughout the town. Traffic lights on the 126 as well as in town were out all morning. Due to high winds forecasted for the area, the City of Fillmore has issued announcements of potential power shut offs for the area. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.
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Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore
High winds are forecasted to affect Ventura County from Monday, Jan. 6, through Friday, Jan. 10. Dry vegetation and strong gusts increase wildfire risks, which may result in Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) by Southern California Edison (SCE) to protect our communities.

What to Do:

- Stay Prepared: Have an emergency kit ready with essentials.

- Stay Informed: Track potential shutoffs at SCE.COM/psps.

- Be Alert: Check VCEmergency.com for updates.

- Safety First: If outages occur, please treat all intersections as four-way stops and use flashlights instead of candles to avoid fire risks.

- Share this message to help spread the word and keep our community safe!

#SCE #PSPS
#VenturaCounty
#SafetyFirst

#WeatherAlert #CommunityPreparedness

***

Check https://www.vcemergency.com/ for latest updates: Updated January 8, 2025 at 9:25 AM
BRUSH FIRE

A brush fire ignited in the area of Olivas Links Golf Course and Victoria at approximately 7:50 am. Ventura County fire crews are on scene of the working to contain the fire, currently estimated between 3-4 acres. No structures threatened at this time. Residents in the area of the fire should be alert to changing conditions and leave when the area becomes dangerous with or without an evacuation order.
ROAD CLOSURE

CHP has closed Harbor Blvd. at Gonzalez Road.

***
Updated January 8, 2025, at 4:15 am: SANTA ANA WIND EVENT/SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON – PUBLIC SAFETY POWER SHUTOFF
Incident Summary

Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services and the National Weather Service are monitoring a developing strong Santa Ana Wind event expected to impact Ventura County beginning Tuesday, January 7th through Friday, January 10th. High Wind Watches and Warnings will be in effect from Tuesday at 10am through Wednesday at 6pm for most of Ventura County, while Red Flag Warning conditions will be present along the Malibu coast, Santa Monica Mountains, Ventura County beaches, Santa Susana Mountains and eastern valleys. While winds are expected to impact all of Ventura County, the current forecast calls for highest intensity conditions in eastern areas such as Simi Valley where gusts of 50-80 mph may be observed, with isolated gusts of up to 100 mph possible.

Southern California Edison is monitoring 83 circuits for possible Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events, with a period of concern from Tuesday at 6pm through Thursday at 12pm, to coincide with peak wind intensities.
For more information on the status of circuits, visit the Incident Dashboard Map https://vcoes.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/e15ca0d2737d 43cea6514043e61f1a7c.

To follow the weather forecast, visit the National Weather Service https://www.weather.gov/lox/.
Community Resource Centers

Southern California Edison has opened the following Community Resource Centers for customers impacted by this PSPS event. Each location will be open January 8th from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, and on January 9th from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Fillmore Active Adult and Community Center

533 Santa Clara Street

Fillmore, CA 93015

Courtyard by Marriott

191 Cochran Street

Simi Valley, CA 93065

Thousand Oaks Inn

75 W. Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

 
Christine Schieferle, Superintendent, Fillmore Unified School District
Christine Schieferle, Superintendent, Fillmore Unified School District

Although, the majority of Fillmore woke up to outages Wednesday morning, including students who were returning to school from winter break. The school district released the following statement on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FUSDDistrict Wednesday morning:

FUSD School Community,

Due to the high winds, Southern California Edison has shut off power at all of our school sites. We are prepared to keep all of our schools open today.

Each school will have one dedicated line for families to use if they need to contact their child’s school. All school offices will also have access to email. See phone numbers below.

The Child Nutrition Services Department will serve all students breakfast and lunch.

Site custodians and MOT staff will monitor all school grounds throughout the day.

All students will be safely in classrooms with teachers and we will utilize natural light.

We realize that each family will make the best decision on whether or not to send their child to school today. Therefore, there will be no attendance penalty for absences for today.

Please know our schools are safe and we are ready to welcome back students this morning.
We appreciate your flexibility and support as weather conditions continue to change.

Sincerely,

Christine Schieferle

Superintendent

MOUNTAIN VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL – (805) 524-6781

PIRU ELEMENTARY SCHOOL – (805) 521-1709

RIO VISTA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL – (805) 524-4210

SAN CAYETANO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL – (805) 524-6040

FILLMORE MIDDLE SCHOOL – (805) 524-6070

FILLMORE HIGH SCHOOL – (805) 524-6100

Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Study Program (805) 524-8202

 
 Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff Office
Photo credit Ventura County Sheriff Office
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Deputies assigned to the Fillmore Patrol Station conducted extra patrol in a high-crime area, resulting in the recovery of two firearms associated to a Los Angeles County burglary.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to collaborating with businesses and residents in a manner that inspires them to be a force multiplier of safety by empowering them to be the eyes and ears of our community. In the latter half of 2024, community members expressed concerns over a rise in criminal activity in the 100 Block of Santa Clara Street, City of Fillmore. In response to the community concerns, deputies assigned to the Fillmore Patrol Station conducted proactive foot patrols in the area to engage with community members, deter criminal activity, and enforce laws.
On December 24, 2024, while conducting foot patrol, deputies detained Emmanuel Moreno Diaz for suspicion of trespassing. Diaz is a known transient and had previously been arrested for trespassing at the same location. During the contact, Diaz was found to be in possession of two loaded firearms. A records check of the firearms revealed they had been stolen during a Los Angeles County burglary in October of 2024. Diaz was subsequently arrested for being in violation of Penal Code § 602 (o) – Trespassing, Penal Code § 496 (a) – Possession of Stolen Property, and Penal Code § 27545 – Unlawful Firearms Transfer. Diaz was booked into the Ventura County Main Jail.

Nature of Incident: Christmas Eve Firearms Arrest
Report Number: 24-161093
Location: 100 Block of Santa Clara Street, Fillmore
Date & Time: 12/24/2024 09:10 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Patrol Services
Suspect: Emanuel Moreno-Diaz Fillmore, CA 24

Prepared by: Senior Deputy Dustin Heersche
News Release Date: December 24, 2024

Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

 
UPDATE: Carlos Perez, 39, and Maria Ceja, 31, both of Santa Paula, died in the two-vehicle collision Tuesday afternoon, according to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office. They died of blunt-force injuries, and their deaths were considered accidental.
UPDATE: Carlos Perez, 39, and Maria Ceja, 31, both of Santa Paula, died in the two-vehicle collision Tuesday afternoon, according to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office. They died of blunt-force injuries, and their deaths were considered accidental.
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On Tuesday, December 24th, 2024, at 2:22 p.m. Ventura County Fire, Fillmore Fire, AMR Paramedics, and California Highway Patrol were dispatched to a reported head-on crash eastbound SR126 at Fine Road. Arriving firefighters reported two vehicles with major damage: a 2024 Volvo SUV and a black 2019 Lexus. According to CHP’s initial investigation the 2024 Volvo SUV heading westbound veered across the center median into oncoming traffic, the Volvo had been going about 65 mph at the time. It struck a black 2019 Lexus headed eastbound, per CHP.

Two people in the Lexus were found unresponsive,; the 39-year-old man and 31-year-old woman died at the scene. Their names and cities of residence were not released pending family notification. The driver of the Volvo, a 44-year-old Oak View man, was flown by helicopter to Ventura County Medical Center with critical injuries, according to CHP and Ventura County Fire Department. Two passengers in the Volvo, a man, 35, and a woman, 71, suffered moderate injuries and were taken by ground ambulance to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital. Two dogs also died in the crash, one in each vehicle. A third dog that had been riding in the Volvo survived and was picked up by a family member.

On-scene firefighters reported they pulled two trapped patients from one of the vehicles, including the person with critical injuries who was airlifted to VCMC. CHP doesn’t yet know the cause of the crash or whether drugs or alcohol were a factor. No arrests were made.

Any witnesses who haven’t already provided a statement to investigating officers are asked to call the CHP’s Moorpark office at 805-553-0800.

 
On Saturday, December 28th, at 6:51 a.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire, Ventura County Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a single vehicle crash westbound on SR126 near E Street. While deputies were on route, a 911 caller reported that the vehicle ended up in a ditch and was on fire. The occupants of the vehicle were able to exit safely, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Saturday, December 28th, at 6:51 a.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire, Ventura County Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a single vehicle crash westbound on SR126 near E Street. While deputies were on route, a 911 caller reported that the vehicle ended up in a ditch and was on fire. The occupants of the vehicle were able to exit safely, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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On Monday, December 30th, at 2:52 p.m., Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics were on the scene of a three-vehicle accident at the intersection of Ventura Street and Central Avenue. No ambulance transports were made. Traffic was rerouted up Central Avenue to Santa Clara. Cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Monday, December 30th, at 2:52 p.m., Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics were on the scene of a three-vehicle accident at the intersection of Ventura Street and Central Avenue. No ambulance transports were made. Traffic was rerouted up Central Avenue to Santa Clara. Cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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